How This Olympics Differs From Others

July 26, 2021
By Hope Quinonez

The 2020 Summer Olympic Games are finally underway. Already, they are very different from any other Olympic Games. Due to COVID, there are new precautions, rules, and regulations for participating teams that make this Olympic Games different. Additionally, the start of the group play for the women’s soccer tournament has already shocked many. Here’s how this Olympics differs from others.

Women’s Olympic Soccer Tournament

First, the rocky start the USWNT had against Sweden in their first match is already the talk of the Games. The United States broke their 44 game unbeaten streak, and they are in the spotlight for playing, arguably, one of the worst games they’ve ever played.

Not only is the U.S. losing so badly at the international level such a rarity, but some rules and regulations have also changed the dynamic of the tournament. Within the soccer tournament, there are a few new rules due to COVID. The International Olympic Committee adjusted the women’s side and increased the number of players rostered from 18 to 22.

This allows teams to interchange game day lineups and potentially use all 22 players throughout the tournament. However, teams are still allotted an 18-player game-day roster. This includes the 11 starters and seven substitutes for each match. This allows coaches to expand the depth of their squads and include some players that could help every nation’s road to the gold.

COVID Precautions

Since COVID paused the 2020 Summer Olympics, the world and the athletes competing are excited to get the Games going finally. However, COVID is still a global issue, and the athlete village is unlike it has ever been before.

Just before the games were set to begin, there were 61 positive COVID-19 cases amongst the athletes. The 11,000 athletes in the athlete village spread out between 21 residential buildings. Although athletes are wearing masks and staying within their teams to eliminate the number of positive cases, it is only a matter of time until the number of cases rises.

The teams are flying in from different parts of the world, and outside spectators being allowed in stadiums does not help the spread. However, the IOC held a lottery for ticket holders to decrease the number of fans allowed in stadiums, and they are doing their best to reduce the number of cases. Not only does this affect COVID cases, but the lack of spectators could impact the athletes who are used to competing in front of cheering fans.

Changes to the Olympic Village

As for the Olympic Village, let’s just say it is no five-star hotel. The large number of athletes that are participating in the Olympics requires a large living area. Those competing in the games reside in the newly built Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Village. There they have access to a park, general stores, cafes, recreation spaces, and, best of all, cardboard box beds.

These bedrooms are much different than any other Olympic Games. The cardboard bed frames will be recycled after the Games conclude. Although this may sound uncomfortable and different, they are suitable for taller athletes. They also have blackout curtains in the windows to block out daylight for those that like to sleep longer.

Despite any discomfort the athletes may have at bedtime, they still have access to the high-class multi-function complex fitness center. In addition, several amenities will help keep athletes at the top of their game and performance, even if they have to wear a mask at all times. Regardless of the restrictions, athletes in the village have access to high-end resources, rec centers, a 24/7 dining hall, and best of all, they get to represent their country to compete for the gold.

Although this Olympics includes masks, social distancing, athlete bubbles, and limited spectators, the games are still in full swing. Athletes are making the best of their situation and trying to remain healthy throughout the entirety of the Olympic Games. In hopes of winning for their country, they are also battling a worldwide pandemic and being away from their families. These are by far the most unique Olympic Games, and despite the difficulties, these athletes continue to prove they are the best in the world.

Featured Image via @tokyo2020 on Instagram